Toivonen Talks Stall - to Alert Magpies

Toivonen Talks Stall - to Alert Magpies

Article excerpt

OLA Toivonen is stalling over a new PSV Eindhoven contract, which is sure to catch the attention of long-term suitors Newcastle United.

The 27-year-old attacking mid-fielder is in negotiations to extend a deal which expires at the end of the season.

According to his agent Mino Raiola, they will have to increase their offer if they want to keep the player.

His comments raise the possibility Newcastle could sign the Swedish international for free next summer, or that they could pull off a repeat of one of last winter's signings.

"He is very far from renewing his contract with PSV," Raiola, also the agent of Vurnon Anita, told Voetbal international.

"We are at a key moment for the future of the player. The offer from PSV is good but insufficient.

"It has to be enhanced for the quality of this player."

Owner Mike Ashley has always been keen to find value in the transfer market and last year he wrote a PS2.5m cheque for another attacking midfielder Moussa Sissoko.

The Frenchman was initially used in the No.10 role where Toivonen has been playing this season, but has now found a home on the right side of midfield.

If PSV choose to cut their losses in January, Toivonen could be available for a similar fee.

While his contract extension remains unsigned he is free to discuss a pre-contract agreement with interested clubs from January.

While Newcastle are not in the perilous position they found themselves in this time last year, there is still good reason to make an early move for Toivonen.

Norwich City, Aston Villa, Fulham, Fiorentina and Juventus are all thought to be interested, so Newcastle risk losing out on the player if they sit on their hands, something Raiola will be acutely aware of when he sits at the negotiating table.

Toivonen has long been linked with the Premier League, and Newcastle in particular. …